EXECUTIVE MOVES: VIRGIL ABLOH FOUNDATION NAMES DANA LOATMAN AS INAUGURAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Virgil Abloh Foundation (VAF), established by Shannon Abloh and family to continue the legacy of her late husband, designer, visionary, and cultural pioneer Virgil Abloh, has announced Dana Loatman as its first Executive Director. She will oversee the Foundation’s operations, strategic planning, and program development

As a leader with more than a decade of experience in the nonprofit, philanthropic, creative and social impact sectors, Loatman has advocated for underrepresented communities and fosters partnerships that drive systemic change. Most recently, she served as Chief of Staff of External Affairs for the Obama Foundation.

“Virgil and I first began investing in communities and youth more than two decades ago, so finding the person to take on the immense responsibility of leading the Foundation was something I took very seriously,” said Shannon Abloh, the Virgil Abloh Foundation Founder and Board President. “We embarked on a thoughtful search to find a leader who embodies Virgil’s approach of reimagining what’s possible. I know he would be energized to see someone with Dana’s character, creativity and drive at the helm. Dana’s ability to rethink traditional ideas of philanthropy while crafting forward-thinking approaches ensures we continue to honor Virgil’s legacy in a way that stays true to his spirit.”

“Dana has always been committed to empowering the next generation. No matter the situation, she leads with grace, integrity, creativity, optimism, and an unshakable work ethic that inspires everyone around her,” said Michael Strautmanis, Executive Vice President of External Affairs at the Obama Foundation. “I’ve seen firsthand her unique ability to unite people from all walks of life – whether staff, community members, influencers, donors, government, or corporate leaders – leveraging their strengths to achieve a common mission. Dana is not just trusted to get the job done; she elevates every effort with her vision and determination. I can’t imagine a better leader to helm the Virgil Abloh Foundation. While we will miss her greatly, I couldn’t be prouder to see her take on this role, and I’m confident her leadership will set the Foundation up for success and look forward to partnering together to invest in the next generation of creative leaders.”

Reflecting on her new role, Loatman expressed her deep commitment to the Foundation’s mission: “Virgil was a visionary who believed deeply in not only opening doors – but keeping them open – for young creatives of color who would come after him. I am deeply honored to lead The Virgil Abloh Foundation and carry forward the incredible legacy that he envisioned. Together, with Shannon, partners and collaborators, I will work endlessly to create limitless pathways and build a more equitable and inclusive industry for the next generation of creatives.”

Loatman begins this work with the support of an inaugural Board of Directors, which includes leaders from across fashion, nonprofit, philanthropic, and creative ecosystems. Members include Shannon Abloh, Founder and President, Virgil Abloh Foundation; Marc Eckō, Founding Director, Complex NTWRK; Howard Feller, President H Feller Enterprises; Naecia Dixon, Virgil Abloh Post-Modern Scholar and Color Designer, Men’s Footwear, Nike; Monica Haslip, Executive Director, Little Black Pearl; and Corey Smith, VP and Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at LVMH North America.

The Foundation is currently operating its own pilot programs as well as ongoing initiatives with a range of partners, including the Royal College of Arts, and the Virgil Abloh™ “Post Modern” Scholarship Fund, administered by the Fashion Scholarship Fund. The Foundation plans to significantly expand its efforts in 2025. More information can be found at virgilablohfoundation.com.